Darius Taylor Arrested Following Cloud 9 Smoke Shop Burglary on Memorial Drive

ATLANTA, GA — A targeted commercial burglary at the Cloud 9 Smoke Shop on Memorial Drive in Northeast Atlanta has resulted in the arrest and charging of a local man, following a multi-day investigation by the Atlanta Police Department. The suspect, identified as Darius Taylor, was apprehended after being recognized by officers in the area wearing the same clothing captured on store surveillance footage.

Early Morning Alarm and Police Response

The incident began during the early morning hours of Monday, April 28, 2025. At approximately 4:00 a.m., Atlanta police officers responded to a commercial burglary alarm at the Cloud 9 Smoke Shop location. Upon arriving at the scene, responding units immediately observed a male suspect attempting to leave the business premises. The suspect, who was carrying a backpack, noticed the arriving officers and fled on foot, escaping into a densely wooded area adjacent to the property. While a perimeter was quickly established, the suspect temporarily managed to evade search dogs and patrol units.

Surveillance Investigation and Detection

Detectives from the Atlanta Police Department's property crimes division reviewed high-quality video surveillance footage from the establishment. The cameras recorded the suspect's face and his unique clothing, which became a vital clue for patrolling officers. On Thursday, May 1, 2025, officers operating near Moreland Avenue observed a male matching the physical characteristics of the suspect. Crucially, the individual was wearing the exact same outfit seen in the security tape from the night of the crime.

Arrest and Recovery of Stolen Goods

The suspect was detained without further incident. During the search, officers located several items stolen from the Cloud 9 Smoke Shop inside his backpack and pockets. Darius Taylor was booked into the Fulton County Jail on charges of:

• Smash-and-grab burglary (second-degree)
• Theft by taking
• Obstruction of law enforcement officers

The Atlanta Police Department credited the combination of clear business surveillance technology and the diligence of local patrol officers for the rapid resolution of the case.